Best desktop computers: CNET Top 5

CNET Top 5: Best desktop computers

Welcome to CNET Top 5, where each time we meet, we count down another
hot CNET list. I'm Tom Merritt.
Desktop computers are often talked of with disdain, usually by skinny
kids with ironic T-shirts and a Netbook.
But desktop computer have never been more impressive. You cannot find
anything close to the sheer computing power of a desktop in those
skimpy, plasticky portables.
One man at CNET, Rich Brown champions their causes, and has picked five
desktops that exemplify the best in their category of desktop
computers.
Let's see what he picked and count down the Top 5 best desktop
computers.
At No. 5, the Gateway SX2800-0. This slim beauty proves you don't have
to have a big budget to have a good desktop. For about $500, it's
fast, affordable, and cheaper than many Netbooks with a 10th the
capabilities.
Coming in at No. 4, the Maingear Shift. Expert craftsmanship, fast
overclocking and pristine internal cabling make this a prime example of
the heights desktop computing has risen to. And it's a looker, too.
Up to No. 3, the HP TouchSmart 600. This is your kitchen computer. It's
flexible design, beautiful touch screen, and excellent custom recipe
app make it a must next to the Cuisinart and the KitchenAid. It also
specially integrates Netflix and Hulu too. Do all that on your Netbook!
Sliding in at No. 2, the 27-inch Apple iMac. Here's your ultimate home
office computer. The largest all-in-one screen there is and fast
dual-core CPU. If it only had Blu-ray drive, it might have made it even
higher.
Before we get to No. 1, it's time for another lame prize.
Here's the deal. Be one of the first 10 people to answer the question
correctly and you could be chosen to win:
A 3.5 inch floppy drive. Cause most desktops don't come with these
anymore!
Here's the question: What computer from 1972 is often consider the
first desktop computer because it fit on a desk and had a BASIC
interpreter built in ROM?
Answer fast at blog.cnettv.com
All right. Let's get to our No. 1. Each of these computers is the best
in it's class, but in the end, there can be only one.
At No. 1, it's...the Velocity Micro Edge Z30 (Intel Core i7). We gave
it 8.9 out of 10 and an Editors' Choice rating. At just more than
$1,000, it's the best midrange gaming PC that money can buy. If
you're looking for a capable desktop to do some gaming on, this is it.
Well That's it for this edition of CNET Top 5.
Don't forget to answer our trivia question for a chance to win the
floppy drive at blog.cnettv.com.
I'm Tom Merritt. See you next time.